BUSTED! Wild Camping Gone Wrong (Badly Wrong!)

This wild camp did not go to plan! I thought I'd go solo wild camping to test some new 2023 Exped camping gear. Everything was going well until a Range Rover stopped at the bottom of the fire break and 3 guys jumped out! This is my biggest wild camping fail to date!
My bright red top certainly did not help my stealth camping efforts. After casually saying 'hi' I got an immediate response of 'what the f#$k are you doing here!'.
However, lessons were learned with my wild camping gone wrong experience. I'm pleased how I dealt with the situation and I think others can learn from it too hence why I created this video.
At the end of the day, if you're on someone else's land and they catch you just confess up, say sorry and move on. There is no point getting aggy when you're legally in the wrong.
I had no idea the woodland area had been set aside for shooting. It's really hard to find out who the owners are of these woodland areas let alone find out what the woods are being used for. Obviously, if I had known, I would never have gone in there.
Getting busted does however highlight the sad fact wild camping is illegal in England outside of Dartmoor. It also highlights the sadness of the limited access we have on land. The right to roam and open access land is sparce, and if you live where I do, it's hours away. Unfortunately we live in a country where making money from land is far more important than people's physical and mental health.
It is a great shame, as I could have completed my wild camp, left no trace, and nobody would have been none the wiser.
Follow me on Instagram: / backpacking_uk
Wild Camping Gear 'used':
Exped Venus II UL tent www.exped.com/en/products/ten...
Exped Ultra 3R sleeping mat www.exped.com/en/products/sle...
Exped Ultra -5 sleeping bag www.exped.com/en/products/sle...
NOTES TO CONFIRM THE FOLLOWING:
1) At no point was a gun pointed at me. The stalker / ranger had it by his side with his arm / hand on it.
2) The stalker / ranger who saw me was working hence why I was told I could have been shot.
3) I now know what I thought were 'fire breaks' are actually 'rides'.
4) There was no signage to warn of the dangers. There is even a public footpath that runs down one side of the woodland.
5) I was there 1 hour before dark. Obviously when I'm not filming I am more discreet.
6) As far as I see it I was 100% in the wrong.
7) I will be requesting permission in the future and I'll let you know the outcome!
If you are into your hiking, backpacking and wild camping please SUBSCRIBE @BackpackingUK
Thanks, Andy.
#wildcamping #wildcampinguk #backpackinguk

[@Ian..]

You handled that well Andy. I feel your frustration, it’s so hard to find remote places in England, especially woodland. I like to explore access land - camping not allowed of course, but at least you have a right to be there. Hope you aren’t discouraged 👍🏻

[@BackpackingUK]

I’ll definitely make an effort to try and find out, and then contact, local land owners. That’s what I’ve taken away from this experience.

[@markhawkins2723]

You can’t blame land owners, I’m a land owner and what you don’t see is the litter and damage left by some people, so the land owner don’t know if your respectful to the. Land or just a twat that will damage our lands... and also remember they own the land and it’s not your right.

[@theapocalex]

Agreed i think its disgusting that these people that most of the time have inherited vast swathes of land just have a massive boner for catching an innocent wild camper that usually leaves the spot cleaner than when they found it.

[@mikebowers7161]

I got caught on the north York moors by the farmer. He came down to me and my 2 grand daughters on quad bikes with 2 others. When he saw that we weren’t a bunch of kids, he was lovely. He allowed us to stay “without permission “ to deter others and said if we set fire to the heather, we MUST go to the farm and report it. I gave him my word we wouldn’t light any fires and would go back to the road to use our trangia at breakfast. He was a lovely guy and extremely reasonable. Maximum Respect!!

[@christopherlucas892]

The other side of wild camping in England. Glad you showed this Andy, many other KZbinrs wouldn't I bet. Good on yer mate for keeping it real 👍

[@michaeljames8534]

You probably stood out easily in that red T-shirt Andy. Credit to you for keeping your cool and holding your hands up, literally. Better luck with your next camp.

[@BackpackingUK]

I think the t-shirt actually helped dissolve the situation as I clearly wasn’t trying to hide 😂

[@pootlingalong8928]

I was raised in the countryside and often wondered why we don’t hear of more shooting of wild camper accidents, given the willingness of wild campers to settle down for the night in some hedge bottom and the routine habit of farmer’s sons and their mates to go out potting rabbits and game birds at night, not knowing wild campers are on their land! I urge wild campers to knock on a farmers door and ask if they can kip on his land of a night. Better than an accidental bullet in the head.

[@BackpackingUK]

Agreed, but the farmland is vast where I live, it’s not that simple.

[@E6EES]

You don't hear of this happening because firearm owners are trained and vetted. A clear and safe backstop is always essential

[@GodAtum]

i've been shot at by poachers making a hole in my tent. very scary experience!

[@davidc107500]

Well it's an offence Section 16A: it is an offence for a person to have possession of a firearm or imitation firearm with intent by means thereof to cause a person to believe that unlawful violence will be used against them or another, or with intent to enable another person by means thereof to do the same Farmer Giles will certainly have piles as its up to 10 years imprisoned. Doesn't matter one jot if he is on private land or trespassing on land. That's why farmers don't threaten people with shotguns. Look at the case of Ton Martin the victim was killed after he burgled his home. He went to prison for life for murder. He did three years after his appeal was accepted and was senteced to 5. So good luck farmer Giles playing stupid games you will be going to prison

[@neilgirling1798]

At the time it looks like a scary moment, but you'll look back at it and probably have a good laugh about it, great review as always 👍

[@BackpackingUK]

Exactly!

[@heather333]

Seriously, if he pointed a gun at you, you MUST report it to the police. You won't be in trouble as trespass is a civil issue. A landowner can only tell you to leave, but they don't need to point a gun at you to do that. They can call the police only if you refuse to go. Sounds like an aggressive landowner, and such landowners should have their gun licences removed.

[@BackpackingUK]

He had his hand / arm on his rifle which was down one side of his body off his shoulder. He definitely didn’t point it at me.

[@woodnugget1301]

@@BackpackingUKthat’s good that he did that. I’m a shooter and holding the rifle in this manner is perfectly fine. As long as he did NOT point it at you that’s fine.

[@sahhull]

As if the land ower would risk getting a prison stay and or loosing their gun license for threatening a dude with a tent. In the country a gun is as useful a tool as the torch app on your phone is to you.

[@stevewebb2102]

Rule 2 of wild camping is... Never camp without a gun. I never camp without my Forclaz Glock UL 10 - a powerful gun that weighs less than 10 grammes. Works perfectly with the Alpkit grenade launcher and the OEX Missile Launcher.

[@sahhull]

@@stevewebb2102 what.. No plate carrier?

[@rtk3543]

I never camp in private woodland for this very reason, lots of people shoot in them or rear game. If there are public footpaths through woodland then its unlikely anyone will shoot there, you just have to use your common sense. England is so restricted and has a limited amount of access land, getting busted is always a risk we take when wild camping. Nice tent though.

[@BackpackingUK]

There’s a public footpath that runs down the whole side of this woodland, that’s why I thought it would be safe.

[@thebackingpackinggeordie]

Hi Andy, that's a beautiful tent mate. Its huge. Always a risk wildcamping mate, I got caught by a farmer and I was worried but he just waved and went past. Phew!

[@stephengregory3982]

"get a bullet to the brain, how am i gonna explain that to the mrs?!" 😂😂😂😂😂 Absolutely brilliant.

[@theapocalex]

it is the most english thing ive ever heard haha

[@rurintojas]

Oh that's a shame Andy! I camped in the ranges couple days ago and that was thrilling experience, I had to hide from constant military patrols and rangers, but all went well. Top tip - don't wear red if you don't want to be seen haha. My uncle owns some hunting woodland back in my country and they constantly check for poachers. As wild camping is legal in my country poachers do pretend to be campers as well till sun goes down. Sometimes they can attack you so I do understand those guys being aggressive in the beginning. Luckily all went well!

[@BackpackingUK]

Looking back I obviously stood out a mile away but I wonder if I’d being wearing my Fjallraven gear maybe they would have taken it further or not calmed down as quickly 🤷🏻‍♂️

[@khalidkobeikram7408]

Wild camping in a BRIGHT RED T-shirt! I can see how that would go bad!!

[@henry9406]

I’ve always argued wild camping should be legal on common land , but I always loose the argument because too many people would ruin it for everyone else , and it’s true . My next plan was for the councils to have an experiment on a selected site . Love your videos thanks 👍🍻😁

[@BackpackingUK]

That has surrounded the Dartmoor case. Unfortunately, as always, a small minority spoil it for everyone.

[@RannonSi]

My advise would be to look at countries with freedom to roam legislature and take inspiration from their laws when arguing your case! ^^ en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Freedom_to_roam

[@DS-cf1zc]

I love wild camping in my campervan - and its a complete risk now in the UK - Scotland hate us owing to the actions of a minority, and other parts of the UK it is technically illegal and other people take it upon themselves to create problems for their own fun with people minding their own business. Sad state of affairs.

[@henry9406]

@@RannonSi …..thanks for reminding me, I’ve been walking my dogs along a field edge for 40 years and the young farm hands” now”keep trying to stop me now 😂

[@andrewohare7055]

Well done Andy for dealing with it and living to camp another day.

[@BackpackingUK]

Every day is a school day!

[@0110Cryptic]

Thank god I live in Scotland. Glad you're ok though. Better luck next time mate. Love the vids thankyou..👍

[@BackpackingUK]

I’m so jealous 😭 (apart from the midges!)

[@0110Cryptic]

@ImaSMACKHEAD982 yeah Scotland have trespass laws under the trespass (Scotland) act 1865. People think because wild camping is legal that it means there's no trespass law's. As part of Scotland's access legislation, the land reform (Scotland) act 2003. You have the right to free roam and are allowed to camp on most unenclosed land.

[@foreverirish132]

@@0110Cryptic can I ask you a question since your from Scotland 🏴󠁧󠁢󠁳󠁣󠁴󠁿 I’m planning on doing the WHW and wondering when’s the best time of year to do it? I’m thinking spring time to maybe avoid the midgets 😅 I hear it gets very busy over the summer months. Many thanks

[@0110Cryptic]

@foreverirish132 March, April, May, September, and October are the best months to avoid midges buddy. May is the most popular with walker's making accommodation and amenities availability more difficult.

[@foreverirish132]

@@0110Cryptic thank you so much for the reply 😊 I really appreciate it. I’m bringing my head net anyways 😅 but I’ll definitely take your advice 😊🏴󠁧󠁢󠁳󠁣󠁴󠁿 🇮🇪

[@wr1120]

All in the game. Take your losses. Mooooving on.

[@BackpackingUK]

Everyday is a school day, live and learn!

[@suecharnock9369]

I know a few land owners, so I love the wild camping but also know about the bad side of it! Like you say - it is difficult to find out who the land owners are and trust me, you are going to have to build a relationship with them before you get any sort of permissions. They have been blighted by fly tipping, people hare coursing and poaching. Little wonder they are not always friendly when they find someone on their land!

[@DemiGod..]

The land owner would not be happy if keep gets pestered by people turning up at his house , asking for permision.

[@jasonkelsey987]

Pahaaa! Are you going to film the kit again Andy? Wouldn’t of hurt them to let you carry on! How did you explain it to the Mrs? Don’t let it put you off. Good film as always.

[@alasdairclosier8548]

Tip to find the owner, just walk up to the nearest farm house and ask, if they aren't the owner they'll direct you to someone who can help. Always worth sweetening the proposition with an alcoholic bribe. If you want to use it more regularly. The guy in the suit is probably a client on the estate.

[@BackpackingUK]

I will definitely try and find out the Estate who owns the land. Maybe I could ask for a season ticket 😂

[@LundysWildcampBushcraft]

New to the channel pity you got busted mate the tent looks massive atvb Jimmy 😎😎👍👍

[@Tsamados]

Ha ha brown trousers time! As a kid I went camping with a load of friends and we were shot at by some guys on the back of a pickup truck. Not sure if they were aiming at us or just trying to shoot rabbits, but we were running and ducking for cover regardless!

[@hampshireoutdoorsandsurviv9340]

Good advice mate it happens get hold of the estate you may be lucky enough to get a spot on the estate just a tip from a shooter fire breaks are stripped to the ground but rides are set up between wooded areas with long grass for the deer and to give a clear shot have fun stay safe ,,,,mick

[@BackpackingUK]

I never knew that, I really could have been shot then 😱

[@hampshireoutdoorsandsurviv9340]

it has been known to happen about ten years ago a guy shot what he thought was a fox whilst doing lamb protection at night and hit a badger watcher who had no permission to be on the private land iv also had people in the danger areas of military ranges that i have run , never ignore the red flags they are there for a good reason, i love my wild camping and my tip is stick to common land as most councils are not to bothered about wild camping and dont have the resources to manage them @@BackpackingUK

[@soldier-Dave]

This is why when I go wild camping everything is camo…no tent just a camo basher with a cam net thrown over. No lights etc. I’ve had shooters walk past me within 5 metres and not seen me .ex military helps . In 38 yrs I think I was seen twice..so packed up and moved within 1 1/2 mins . Never confronted. Great video!

[@BackpackingUK]

I think I need to watch more East Anglian Bushcraft videos!

[@soldier-Dave]

@@BackpackingUK kzbin.info/www/bejne/o5W2lYV8h91kd9k

[@E6EES]

Let's hope you're never in the line of their backstop if you're so covert.

[@soldier-Dave]

@@E6EES credit me with a little intelligence ffs!

[@E6EES]

@@soldier-Dave Covert camping on a shooting ground, it’s hard to see you as intelligent.

[@ohdearism]

Families who 'own' vast estates, who's ancestors literally stole through means of murder and violence. Yet people still choose to doff their caps. Glad you got out alive.

[@sp00nfed]

Very nice pack you got there mate.

[@mrjiggs3761]

....and Ive got ticks all over my bare legs from being in the long grass lol ;D

[@flo4710]

Nice video!

[@Philip_Taylor]

The bright red shirt was a nice touch

[@RichardMathews-gv7lb]

Hides the wounds

[@JonleePeakman]

I am in Scotland but have had both a gun pointed at me, later said just looking through their scope to get a better view of me, and also been in a wood where hunters were lamping at night where they basically drive around with a massive lamp to freeze game and then shoot it. Scary experiences and taught me even in Scotland with our much fairer laws towards access rights it's still best to say you are on someones land.

[@WessexBladesHandMadeKnives]

I remember an "Estate" where I used to do overnights as I always checked with the gamekeeper etc went fine for ages, then I thought it would be a good place to use as a location for the National Geographics Preppers UK 2, once they got a sniff that it was for filming, they immediately went "£1200" please...never been back, I spent months trying to liaise with other farms/plantations but forever got embroiled with farmers/shoots, partridge man, land owner, Duchy of Cornwall, deer cull, it was stoooopid, so now so I use my mates place Daggerwood for £8 a night, not worth getting a bad rep as a knife maker...

[@miker8225]

I would've thought a shooting woodland would have some kind of sign or at least a fence off the walking trail that you seem to casually walk back on to... unless it was a private estate? If the latter I wouldn't go near initially, lol.

[@BackpackingUK]

No signs and it’s completely open all the way round, even on the side that is a public footpath.

[@eddiejefferies3659]

If that tent only had one vestibule area, it would be my perfect tent.

[@ufonut]

Hi Andy you could have included the footage when you we’re caught. Good video

[@BackpackingUK]

I stopped filming when I could hear the car. I would do the same the same again. I wouldn’t want to antagonise land owners (although it’d make a great video 😂).

[@iwasapirateonce1639]

Looked to me very much like you pitched your tent on a game trail. Deeper in the forest would have been much more discrete but then again not the best when hunting is going on for obvious reasons. Late Summer into mid Autumn is by far the worst time for wild camping, lots of hunting, shooting, trail maintenance, midges and horse flies. A lot of shooting happens right beside (or sometimes over) public footpaths in the UK so it's no guarantee of safety. Normally they put out a few shooting/warning signs on the footpath.

[@coolkitty2075]

I don t do much camping nowadays, but your tent is banging 👍

[@BackpackingUK]

Cheers 👍

[@chantongocharisma1165]

How am I going to explain a bullet in the brain to the missus 😆😆

[@BackpackingUK]

😂😂😂

[@crazyblindguy]

Very amazing video well done and keep up the great work and I use a british army basha and British amy gore tex bivvy bag and they are crazy 🤪 people

[@user-ir1fs4wn3y]

More mute colours may have been a better option when doing a stealth camp. Don't need to mitty it up and go full camo but greens and browns can make you look more like one of the shooters than a bod looking to get their head down for the night.

[@kennethcarter5720]

My experience of game keepers is that they always keep gun to hand, not miss an opportunity to dispatch vermin which may present itself. He did not point it at Simon and held his shotgun in a an appropriate and safe manner. Anyone who has experience of being in that situation would not see this as threatening. There would usually be indicators such as drinking and feeding stations in woodland that’s used for shooting. So should we not educate ourselves and especially in regards to shooting season dates. Less chance of being caught. Worked well for me so far

[@robotsonmars1989]

You definitely didn’t nearly get shot. I’m ex army and nearly being shot is nothing like that…😂😂😂

[@BackpackingUK]

I’m not going to argue with that 🤣🤣🤣

[@davids9549]

In what sense did you "nearly get shot"? Were you fired at? Were you even threatened with the firearm? That was clearly a silly place to wildcamp btw, and in broad daylight too... If you wish to continue unauthorised camping on not very wild land, you'd be well advised to go more stealthily, select your pitch more intelligently, don't erect your tent until just before dark, and have it taken down at dawn. Remember you're trespassing (whether you agree with the law or not is immaterial), and be cognisant of the kind of activities which managed farmland/woodland/moorland will host from time to time (top tip: the shooting season starts during August). Don't light a fire and don't cook at camp. That way, you should seldom encounter problems. At least you had the sense not to argue the toss with the landowner/agent.

[@BackpackingUK]

The stalker / ranger was working. The guy said I was lucky not to get shot (through work, not confrontation). It was an hour before dark. Don’t forget I’m a KZbinr and I need light to make a decent video. When I’m out not filming I’d never ever set up in a fire break.

[@zeppo3508]

Is there anyone/group or MPs (Ramblers Association perhaps ) lobbying for an Outdoor Access Code in England given there must be plenty of data on effects on environment and land ownership from the Scottish experience?

[@BackpackingUK]

The Right to Roam movement seems to be getting some traction.

[@Macca85]

Hardly surprising they saw you. You were wearing bright orange

[@Triggeredsociety]

I have anxiety looking at your set up its that long grass you're on i dont feel comfortable on that idk why but it just wouldn't camp on that i prefer flat ground areass in the woods ,there is a good spot on a lake behind my old apt building way back in the woods i used to go too it is so beautiful back there

[@djking44151]

That pack is like a tardis... you just kept pulling more and more out of it

[@iknowyoureright8564]

There’s a way to communicate with people and the way he did that was not it. If I was the land owner, it would have been obvious to me that you didn’t know it was hunting land and it would have been obvious that you weren’t there to make a mess or do any harm. You handled that well, which is understandable when one of them had a gun. 😆 Glad it panned out okay. 👍🏻

[@BackpackingUK]

In fairness to them, I guess you’re going to think worst case scenario first. Once I had a chance to explain myself it quickly dissolved.

[@grant666uk]

Thank the camping gods I live in Scotland. Could not be doing with that shite.

[@scrum5atk1]

Its not far off the shooting season, they have just released the pheasants in the last few weeks,

[@BackpackingUK]

I had zero idea about shooting, when and where. I think I need to gen up on this!

[@justo316]

Will your LighterPack gear list be including a bullet proof vest next time? 😁

[@BackpackingUK]

😂😂😂

[@davidhudson7590]

Could of been worse Andy they might of made you squeal like a pig boy 😮😮as banjos played 😂😂

[@BackpackingUK]

😂😂😂

[@andyfox4406]

I can almost feel the adrenaline …..😂

[@BackpackingUK]

I still can 😂😂😂

[@andyfox4406]

I bet ! Love your channel btw . Don’t let that stop you !

[@kentwydell9322]

I love the idea of wild camping but the constant anxiety of being 'rumbled' would ruin the whole experience.

[@gamevidz6319]

Dartmoor is fine just stay in the purple areas. www.dartmoor.gov.uk/about-us/about-us-maps/camping-map www.gov.uk/government/publications/dartmoor-firing-programme/dartmoor-6-week-firing-notice-2-may-to-12-june-2022

[@BackpackingUK]

To be fair, you’re usually ok in the National Parks if you’re high and out the way. You’re always at risk wild camping locally. However, hopefully this video shows that even when the worst happens you’re still ok.

[@TheSuperTrickey]

​@@BackpackingUKagreed, but the chance, even a very low chance, of having anything like this happen, will always put me off. Tories with guns telling me to F off would P me off too much.

[@alex_n8863]

Always worth looking out for spent shotgun cartridges where you're staying!

[@BackpackingUK]

Absolutely! I was mid-pitch at another local location and spotted a cartridge. I swiftly packed up and moved on!

[@Phil.Oakley]

Proper twitchy bum time! Least they didn't use you for some rich man's hunting! 😂

[@Johnny-RR]

This is the problem with walking onto private land without permission. I wild camp but I speak to the land owner first. 10:12 99% percent of the time its a big yes know problem. Most have people shooting where I go but a quick call the day before insures there's nobody shooting while I'm there. Common sense really..

[@mikemcnulty6029]

Think that's bad ...I came under fire from The Royals up on Deeside last week..!

[@BackpackingUK]

😮

[@mikemcnulty6029]

to be fair Prince Edward did wave as he passed me on the track...🤣@@BackpackingUK

[@chrisbardell]

Glad you got out of that alive. Must admit that's exactly the scenario i would dread the most about true wild camping. I have a couple of permission spots which are great, but some sort of sensible open access legislation (maybe even date-limited) would be a real step forward, assuming filthy scumbags don't spoil it for everyone. Unfortunately here in dear old England, every scrap of land *belongs* to someone and the landowners will always prevail. Vive la révolution?

[@AoifeE.]

You taking the piss? No farmer would shoot someone in the UK and risk losing their licence. Dogs yes. Humans no. Because that would be attempted murder.

[@DemiGod..]

The law was created for landowners, not the peaseants.

[@mad4461]

It's such a shame that this island is so over populated and most of it is farmed, there's very little woodland left :(.

[@LoftusRoadLad]

Actually, your hyperbole aside, rather than it being a ridiculous notion that "the law was created for landowners..." Mr Bardell has correctly identified the problem--a lot of campers--enough to ruin it for everyone--do not treat the campsites respectfully @@DemiGod..

[@ocsapy]

Wildcamping Stealthcamping ... Seriously they must have seen you entering there land dressed like a "RED COAT" fighting the Zulu's ... not alot of Stealth there ... but hey ho enjoyed the first part ... 😎

[@BackpackingUK]

😂😂😂

[@arranbailey4818]

Finding out who owns land is so difficult, I would love to ask permission at some sites that I know, but I can't find the information.

[@BackpackingUK]

I have tried, I genuinely have. It's definitely not as easy as simply 'just ask the owners permission' as you see on most sites.

[@sahhull]

Many land owners are sick n fed up of 'campers' leaving crap and damage after the camp that they have a no tollerance approach now. I dont blame them.

[@arranbailey4818]

@@sahhull it is disgusting the way that some people behave, no respect for anything.

[@hedleythorne]

Very well handled. I co-host a podcast (Wessex Ways) can I just ask where abouts this was please? We discuss right to roam, right to camp a lot on our podcast and this would make interesting information- wild camping isn't legally ruled out by default. Thanks- Hedley

[@geraintjones75]

Guns are used for hunting, sport or pest control, NOT to threaten or intimidate a civilian on private / estate land. You're not allowed to threaten, coerce, or otherwise directly intimidate others whilst holding a deadly weapon. They should have left the fire-arm in the vehicle, then spoke to you, instead of an intimidation show with a fire-arm. I'd have called the police armed response unit, if it was me, in your shoes!

[@The13thGhostBunny]

And you'd have wasted police time because they didn't threaten him with their guns, they held them at their sides in a peaceful manner. Police would've come out, everyone, including yourself, would've been forced to stay put for hours, and nothing would've come of it. It'd have been yolur word against theirs and they have a lot more eye witnesses. Then you'd probably find yourself being sued for trespassing in the first place.

[@user-ew3qe8ql1r]

@@The13thGhostBunny they had zero reason to take the gun out of the car. It was a threat to murder an innocent person

[@robertredwood9944]

Great video Andy. There are two sides to a coin. You have the genuine like yourself. Who take time out to give brilliant information about the outdoors and camping gear. But clearly your not a vagrant. You have all the proper equipment. I think these guys were over the top. The amount of money generated in the pursuit pass time is mega money. It would be nice to be able to know who owns land. Then seek permission. This way the genuine wild campers could report the unsavoury scum who give this pass time a bad reputation. I think the land owners should watch you tube. And see the respect wild campers have when they camp. Sorry to waffle.

[@steverose4639]

If you have permission, I don't think that counts as wild camping, because it's more like camping legally in a wild place then, if I understand correctly.

[@theapocalex]

A vagrant is someone who moves from place to place without a home, so nomad or homeless, my contention is, the reason im researching this is because im probably going to become homeless so when literally every inch of the country is owned by someone and your just a homeless dude tryna survive the night, these land owners who usually get it for free through an inheritance are wankers imo

[@AventuresWithTR]

Wait woah no I’m so sorry this lesson happened to you glad you’re alive also wait a minute though I thought U.K. doesn’t have guns 😩 and you weren’t allowed guns into the country I knew it my fiancé has lied to me lol

[@BackpackingUK]

Rules on using and storing shotguns and rifles are strict in the UK. In this case he was working on the Estate.

[@The13thGhostBunny]

There's a lot of privately owned firearms in the UK. Shotguns and rifles are 100% legal as long as local police are aware of it and grant you permission. You also need to own proper storage for them; you're not supposed to just have a shotgun hanging over the fireplace here. Hunting is a pretty big thing here, and most farmers will own either shotgun or a rifle, they're even allowed to shoot your dogs if they're off the lead and bothering their sheep. Firearms are just more regulated is all, but there's still plenty of guns to go around.

[@martinmitchell8408]

Where are you camping

[@anoksf216]

Land reform needed in the UK.

[@kernow24]

Just some dudes out shooting who told you to move, it's a risk you take if you camp in clearings along trails. Talk about shitting the bed

[@Drew-Abbott]

Always expect to get busted, don't wear bright colours and certainly don't set up in day light. You have to blend with your surroundings

[@user-ul5yu5hk9k]

“The Kings land” you should come to America, camping is a lot less stressful:)

[@BackpackingUK]

I wish 🙏

[@RS899847]

HAD SIMILAR EXPERIENCE MANY YEARS AGO CAMPING IN WALES. TWO VERY HOSTILE BIG GUYS WITH SHOTGUNS AND A FKING HUGE DOG. THEY DEMANDED MONEY FOR TRESPASSING ON THEIR LAND. WHICH I REFUSED. THEY THEN AGGRESSIVELY ESCORTED ME OFF THEIR LAND. GOT BACK TO MY CAR WHERE LUCKILY I HAD A SPARE PAIR OF BOXERS.

[@BackpackingUK]

💩💩💩

[@sy247]

There are always going to be people out shooting on privately owned land, even Forestry Commision woodland and land that has public rights of way running through it. People will be managing deer all year round, shooting foxes and rabbits. Be very careful where you camp. A lot of hunters use night vision and thermal imaging now. Im surprised there haven't been more accidents if i am honest

[@kindredspirit6654]

Size of the tent dude, they must have thought you were starting a settlement. Maybe something little less conspicuous next time.

[@BackpackingUK]

😂😂😂

[@JamesandRibble]

If it were my land i would have been perfectly happy to let you stay.

[@hubby-tubadventures01]

You missed a trick from the off there Andy. Whilst talking to them you should have asked permission to stay. They even gave you the heads up about asking at the estate. Never look a gift horse in the mouth. Go back, you'll be amazed at how nice some people can be when asked AND you would be extra eyes and ears for them. Win Win. Don't ask Don't get.

[@jasonrigby446]

How was it their land in the first place. Somebody in history had forged an area of land by deadly force. And its the same force that threated yourself. You wasn't doing any harm, surely they could see that. So whats they're problem. Could they not be polite about it. These people are below what it means to be human, something inside me thinks they ain't human at all.

[@keelferm]

Absolutely spot on. Property (of land) is theft.

[@djrichylaurence8991]

If you want to camp freely ask a farmer if you can stop the night in his field. If you must camp wherever its not hard to camouflage a green tent and don't camp in the open.

[@summittaedae2323]

The trick is, emigrate to Scotland where we all go camping and live in harmony 😂

[@BackpackingUK]

😂😂😂

[@kristaps2010]

Had similar experience in 2022 out of season when I did Hadrians walk. On first evening, couple hours from start I found a legit campsite. It was dark, raining and campsite was there. A barrier or door through gate was not locked so thinking nothing wrongly I went in and waited for somebody to show up. There was no tents but also no notice at reception hut if campsite is closed. The staffs phone number I found on reception door and called would not pick up. After waiting for an hour I pitched my Unna but did not inflate any mat or set up sleeping bag. Same time car came in through gate and I was optimistic and relieved campsite is open. Turns out it was a very angry/pissed off female - heartless camp supervisor who chocked me out of camp. Late hour, dark, rain, all wet, carry on boy haha Luckily I can disassemble my Unna in 1 minute and did not have to listen to her annoying tone. Obviously I said the truth as looked camp is open, then apologised, asked for advise where is next campsite. But she was really rude, although she didn’t have to. She did point out at small notice on fence saying campsite is closed but for dark hour that notice could not be seen properly and gate/door was open. Probably I was too optimistic but ok no harm done

[@Butchyboysadventures]

Hahahaahahah😂class

[@richardoliver6131]

Oh well you learn,he may invite you back if he sees the video

[@BackpackingUK]

It’s certainly given me an idea 🤔

[@Richard-st8ds]

Rule number 1 never where a Red tee-shirt your supposed to be stealthy i find everything Green works.

[@penny6658]

Why not let the dust settle - then go back, cap in hand, apologise again - and ask if they wouldn't mind you using the land occasionally for a local wild camp or for kit reviews for your channel. You never know!

[@BackpackingUK]

I will write the the Estate. It might to too late now but it’s worth a try. To be fair to me, it’s really hard to find out who owns what land.

[@paulellam6926]

You could use use the card that if you camp there then its another pair of eyes on the estate and that you would agree in advance when you are able to be on the land etc Also suggest to them that you would not mention the location ect in your videos. I think that as you behavd correctly when asked to leave that this will show your character to them, I think you may be in with a good shout @@BackpackingUK

[@richardoliver6131]

Scotland no problems

[@BackpackingUK]

🏴󠁧󠁢󠁳󠁣󠁴󠁿👍

[@PokeEyeSlapSlap]

Wearing Bright Red in Woodland is a bit of a giveaway to start with to be honest, they saw you a mile off.

[@BackpackingUK]

😬😬😬

[@__logan__duvalier__]

be careful you dont get 'accidentally' shot !

[@scrum5atk1]

Go and talk to them then,explain what you do etc, They might have a corner of a wood u can use

[@BackpackingUK]

I will do for sure.

[@michaelkent2203]

Gun and tonics!

[@BackpackingUK]

I’ve drunk way to much beer 🍺 and 🍷 lately!

[@lefrash]

Move to Scotland!

[@BackpackingUK]

🏴󠁧󠁢󠁳󠁣󠁴󠁿🙌

[@TimelordUK]

Andy I think you should contact 'the estate' whatever that means ask ask permission. Explain you are a decent responsible adult just wanting to make a KZbin video for your very successful channel. Apologise for being caught without permission. They can only say no. Worth a "shot" 🤣

[@BackpackingUK]

I will, I just need to find out who the Estate is and then who to contact. Unfortunately it’s not that easy 😩

[@TimelordUK]

@@BackpackingUK keep us up to date Andy. There was no need for them to be so aggressive even if you were on their land.

[@lennartshistoria.ochlitean3542]

Come and camp in Scandinavia ! There you wont be bothered by landowners.

[@TheSuperTrickey]

Doesn't it make it proud to be English, when Tories with guns are in the right and environmentally friendly individuals with tents are the baddies.

[@keelferm]

Trespassers Handbook. Be prepared!

[@woodnugget1301]

There was probably 3 of them just in case sometimes a shooter needs a witness because some people when they court on land they shouldn’t be on tell lies and say the man pointed the gun at me this is the problem. I’m a shooter and if I ever come across someone who should not be there my rifle is disarmed and put on my shoulder and then I start the conversation with said trespasser. Although I’m a shooter I do love wild camping to. To little land in the uk to many people in the uk

[@BackpackingUK]

I think you’re spot on. TBF the rifle was never pointed at me and the guy holding it wasn’t threatening.

[@michaelkent2203]

No fault or foul on the part of the landowner and his security team. They were looking out for your own safety given the property was open to hunting and shooting.

[@BackpackingUK]

100% 👍

[@sambarsambar]

Drama queen. Dont tresspass on private land.

[@BackpackingUK]

You’re clearly not from England.

[@jayjayadventures31]

Love it on my own but would be nice to meet people like what we do fancy meeting up one time just txt

[@carlhughes9584]

Often wonder why dont hear more fatalities from wild canpers in this country......farmers and landowners will often be out at night ......as they dont expect anyone there, you could get accidentslly shot or run over if staying in a green small tent or bivvy which not easily seen........ive even geard in America of people getting murdered while wild camping

[@BackpackingUK]

It’s definitely made me think!

[@hankster4061]

Nasa could see you in that shirt are you serious lol! Well you didn't get shot so there that.

[@BackpackingUK]

😂😂😂

[@CragScrambler]

Im from the Lakes district and I see this all the time, people camping on private land and then they get upset or try to involve the police when the land owner rocks up with his boys, dogs and brandishing an shotgun. They also always seem shocked when the police do arrive and they do nothing other than ask the land owner if they want to prosecute the trespassers 😂 After all you did just admit to commiting a crime. Thing is, if you look for the nearest farmhouse and ask permission or even slip them a tenner they 90% of the time will not only allow you to stay on their land, they will show you to a good spot, then politely ask if they want any money and most of them will decline but its nice to offer. The worst they can do is say no and even if they do they will likely tell you a place you can stay. Simple, no drama, everyones happy.

[@BackpackingUK]

Unfortunately it’s not that easy down here. Believe me, I wish it was!

[@CragScrambler]

Get yourself up to the lakes them mate 😂

[@The13thGhostBunny]

Definitely! Seen a few other comments saying they'd call the police if it was them, even though the law wouldn't have done a thing because the gun owners weren't threatening them with their guns. All that would've happened is the trespasser would've wasted police time, confessed to trespassing, and either have been sued for trespass (if civil) or prosecuted (if criminal). Talk about shooting yourself in the foot. lmao. Been wild camping a number of times in the Lake District. Absolutely stunning place. Locals never had much of a problem with campers for the most part, as long as you're not creating fires, being loud, and leaving a mess.

[@TranceHeed]

Easier to camp in Scotland

[@BackpackingUK]

Just a shame it’s a 6 hour drive from me 😩

[@dazzapeacelove1651]

That's what pisses me off with England can't seem to camp anywhere everyone thinks they own the land I would go Wales or Scotland much more tolerant

[@drumteacher43]

I watch a ton of stealth wild camping videos your the first one I’ve seen where the title is actually what happened and not click bait. Shitte!!